President John Dramani Mahama has conveyed a message of goodwill and national support to the Black Stars ahead of their opening match against Panama at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a statement released on Wednesday, June 17, the President described the team’s fifth World Cup appearance as a testament to the resilient spirit of the nation.

"As you stand on the threshold of your first match against Panama in Toronto, the Government and the over thirty million people of Ghana stand firmly behind you.

"You carry more than a ball. You are carrying the hopes, dreams, and heritage of a people," it stated.

The statement noted that, from the streets of Chorkor to the plains of Bole, every Ghanaian heart beats in sync with the Black Stars players.

"To our vibrant diaspora in Toronto and across North America, we charge you to be the "12th Man". Let the red, gold, and green illuminate the stands, and let our drums remind our boys that wherever a Ghanaian stands, home is never far away."

The President also assured Ghanaians that no citizen would be left behind, saying the Government had successfully secured official television broadcast rights, ensuring that every tackle and every goal would be beamed into homes from Axim to Bawku, and from Ho to Hamile.

It further urged the team to play for the flag and for the children dreaming of greatness in their footsteps, calling the broadcast access a gift to a nation that lives and breathes the beautiful game.

"The world is watching, and we are confident that the Black Star will shine brigh ter than ever before on this global stage. Go Black Stars!

The statement was signed and released by Felix Kwakye Ofosu (MP), Spokesperson to the President, Minister, Government Communications.